NBA Western Conference Finals Game 5 Preview: Minnesota Timberwolves (1-3) vs. Oklahoma City Thunder (3-1)

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Series Overview

The Thunder lead the series 3-1, putting them one win away from clinching a spot in the NBA Finals. Oklahoma City won Game 4 in a thrilling 128-126 victory, with Shai Gilgeous-Alexander scoring 40 points to lead the Thunder. Minnesota, despite a strong effort, now faces elimination and must win to force a Game 6 back in Minneapolis.

Team Comparisons

CategoryTimberwolvesThunder
Record49-3368-14
Points Per Game114.3120.5
Field Goal %47.1%46.6%
Three-Point %38.2%39.5%
Rebounds Per Game42.943.5
Turnovers Per Game13.612.1

The Thunder have been dominant offensively, averaging 120.5 points per game, while Minnesota has relied on defensive intensity and Anthony Edwards’ scoring ability.

Key Players to Watch

Minnesota Timberwolves

Anthony Edwards (SG) – 27.6 PPG, 5.7 RPG, 4.5 APG.

Julius Randle (PF) – 21.2 PPG, 8.3 RPG, providing interior scoring.

Rudy Gobert (C) – 12.1 RPG, defensive anchor in the paint.

Oklahoma City Thunder

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (PG) – 32.7 PPG, 6.4 APG, 1.7 SPG, leading MVP candidate.

Jalen Williams (SF) – 19.9 PPG, 5.6 RPG, 5.5 APG, emerging as a key playmaker.

Chet Holmgren (C) – 14.8 PPG, 8.2 RPG, 2.3 BPG, defensive force.

Matchup Breakdown

Thunder’s Offense vs. Timberwolves’ Defense – Oklahoma City has been explosive offensively, while Minnesota has relied on Gobert’s rim protection.

Turnover Battle – The Thunder force 15.7% of opponent possessions into turnovers, while Minnesota has struggled with giveaways.

Edwards vs. Gilgeous-Alexander – A battle of elite scoring guards, with Edwards needing a huge performance to keep Minnesota alive.

Game Odds

Minnesota Timberwolves            220.5

Oklahoma City Thunder                – 8.5

Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Tuesday, May 27, 2025